Something what worked pretty well for us was to asign a monitary value to each day that passed, like 10 or 15 cents (this was the 70's) If the desired toy cost $10.00, by the time enough days had passed to accumulate the $10.00. they had usually lost intrest in what they "couldn't live without". The bonus was that we didn't miss the dime a day and I put it in a jar and it really helped at Christmas or a birthday.

I have a 5 and 6 yo, both boys and two sets of grandparents. At first we didnt even notice that we were getting toys everytime we went to the store. Later we started saying "no" or giving them a spending limit when we did say "yes". Their grandparents spoil them, thats ok because that is what Grandparents are suposed to do. The kids end up with alot of cash, most goes into their bank accounts but when they really see something they want they can use their own money to get it. This past weekend my oldest wanted a new video game that cost $75. He asked me if he could get it and if i would help him get the money out of the piggy bank.

Not every situation has a single right answer and the kids dont come with an owners manual. You will do like every other good parent and feel your way through things.

I have a 5 and 6 yo, both boys and two sets of grandparents. At first we didnt even notice that we were getting toys everytime we went to the store. Later we started saying "no" or giving them a spending limit when we did say "yes". Their grandparents spoil them, thats ok because that is what Grandparents are suposed to do. The kids end up with alot of cash, most goes into their bank accounts but when they really see something they want they can use their own money to get it. This past weekend my oldest wanted a new video game that cost $75. He asked me if he could get it and if i would help him get the money out of the piggy bank.

Not every situation has a single right answer and the kids dont come with an owners manual. You will do like every other good parent and feel your way through things.

My father has warned me the boy will be getting a mini dirt bike (i had one from doing chores) So i don't mind..

Something what worked pretty well for us was to asign a monitary value to each day that passed, like 10 or 15 cents (this was the 70's) If the desired toy cost $10.00, by the time enough days had passed to accumulate the $10.00. they had usually lost intrest in what they "couldn't live without". The bonus was that we didn't miss the dime a day and I put it in a jar and it really helped at Christmas or a birthday.